Chyornyj Obelisk

Chyornyj Obelisk formed in Leningrad in 1986, during the Soviet underground era. Their name translates to "Black Obelisk." The band's early sound leaned into heavy metal riffs with lyrics that felt introspective for the time, which didn't always fit with the more conservative musical climate. They built an audience through underground concerts and festivals.

Their 1988 album "Стена" (The Wall) included the song of the same name, which became something of an anthem for young people during the perestroika years. The lineup shifted over time, but the core included vocalist and guitarist Viktor "Pank" Sokolovsky, bassist Dmitry "Khmura" Khmuruk, and drummer Sergei "Kusti" Kuskov. They released a few more albums in the early 1990s, like "Обет" and "Осколки."

Some of their lyrics drew attention for being critical, which occasionally put them at odds with authorities. They kept playing through that period, and their music found listeners who connected with its directness and weight.